Proverbs 10:19

19 Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.

Proverbs 10:19 in Other Translations

KJV
19 In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.
ESV
19 When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.
NLT
19 Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.
MSG
19 The more talk, the less truth; the wise measure their words.
CSB
19 When there are many words, sin is unavoidable, but the one who controls his lips is wise.

Proverbs 10:19 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 10:19

In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin
Where a great deal is said, without care and forethought, there will not only be many weak things uttered, but much falsehood, and at least many idle things, which cannot be excused from sin; not but that much and long speaking may be to great profit and advantage, when it is with care and judgment, and founded on close meditation and study. Or, "sin ceaseth not" F14; along with a torrent of words is a flow of sin, which ceases not as long as that continues: it is a saying of the Jewish Rabbins,

``he that multiplies words brings on or brings unto sin;''
but he that refraineth his lips [is] wise;
lays a restraint on his mouth, bridles his tongue; does not suffer his lips to utter anything rashly and inconsiderately; is sparing of his words and is careful of what he says, that it is true and proper to be spoken; and considers well the time when, place where, and persons to whom he speaks; and, all circumstances weighed, conducts accordingly: such a man is a wise, prudent, and understanding man; see ( Proverbs 17:27 Proverbs 17:28 ) .
FOOTNOTES:

F14 (ldxy al) "non cessabit", Montanus, Junius & Tremellius, Michaelis; "non cessat", Piscator.

Proverbs 10:19 In-Context

17 Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.
18 Whoever conceals hatred with lying lips and spreads slander is a fool.
19 Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.
20 The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value.
21 The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of sense.

Cross References 1

  • 1. S Job 1:22; S Job 6:24; Proverbs 17:28; S Proverbs 20:25; Proverbs 21:23; Ecclesiastes 5:3; James 1:19; James 3:2-12
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